Eyeland of St. Johns Sponsors Rory Fundraiser

For Nikki Earich, owner of Eyeland of St. Johns, the decision to sponsor a Foundation fundraiser was born out of a business relationship that turned into a friendship. “Ross and Mindy, Enid and Ron, Alan and Ellyn, have been customers of mine almost since we opened the store” Nikki said. “Like everyone else who ever met Ross and Mindy, I found them to be wonderful people. The more we talked the more we found out that we really had a lot in common, and the friendship continued to build. And, of course, The Foundation is such a good cause.”

Nikki became involved with the eyeglass business because her father was an optometrist, and needed a high-end eyeglass supplier. Over the years, her business grew from one store to twelve stores. Each store identifies itself with, and works for, a particular charity. “When it came time for us to decide on our charity, it was an easy decision,” she said. “The Rory David Deutsch Foundation.” Nikki decided to pursue her support in a big way.

The fundraiser was launched with “An Evening of Artwork and Eyewear,” held on February 19, 2004 at the store. The open house featured original artwork by Susie and Mitch Levin of High Voltage Studio, a Trunk Show featuring electrifying eyewear from Lafont, and refreshments. A portion of all sales from the evening was donated to The Foundation.

The open house was so successful, that Nikki decided to extend the fund-raising period for another six weeks. Again, for that extended period, a portion of all sales went to The Rory David Deutsch Foundation. As a result, Eyeland of St. Johns graciously wrote The Foundation a check for $3,200.

Since then Nikki has been busy. She took time away from her other job—singing at Bulls, Cubs, and White Sox games—to have her first child, Hannah, who is now ten months old. Nikki is also planning a “big sale to promote our tenth year in business. This will happen in June, 2005.”

There will also, no doubt, be more fund-raising activities for The Foundation, as Nikki Earich continues to fulfill her commitment to help us all keep our eyes on the future. For more information about Eyeland of St. Johns, visit them on the web at www.eyelandofstjohns.com or call I-847-266-6400

Nikki Earich and Rob Rich lend their generous support to the Foundation